A petition for Rutland to once more have a public swimming pool has attracted hundreds of signatories.

Oakham mum Leah Toseland has created the online petition after Rutland Council earlier this year closed Catmose Pool after safety concerns.

To date, more than 800 people have signed it, just short of her target of 1000.

Leah said on Facebook: "The aim would be to present it Rutland County Council, because I really think we do deserve a public pool and Children's Splash Paddling Pool park for Rutland.

"I find we often travel to Corby, and it would be nice to have a pool to the same standard in Rutland, and it would be even better if we could have a 'splash play paddle area' for the summer I think people in Rutland, and from outside of Rutland, would use it and enjoy it."

In her petition, Leah brands it 'unacceptable' that Rutland currently has no pool facilities open for public use, pointing out the benefits swimming brings.

She said: "It is not right that the only swimming pools in our county are privately owned and not as readily available for the people of Rutland.

"Rutland County Council need to decide whether they can repair the pool or if they should be looking for a new development, perhaps to include a children's splash pad/park like those in Grantham (Wyndham Park,) Wellingborough and Peterborough (Bretton.)

"Without a public swimming pool there will be a detrimental impact on people's mental and physical health. Rutland should have a public pool up to the same standard as Corby has, this could help attract people from out of Rutland to visit and use our pool, as people within our County travel to Stamford, Melton or Corby.

"There is very little for young people to do within our county, and perhaps with a rejuvenated pool we can encourage young people to go swimming and encourage a new hobby.

"RCC need to decide whether they update and repair what we have, or whether to look at a new premises so Rutland can rival the pool of Corby and the Children's Splash pad in Grantham.

"Ultimately, Rutland County Council MUST find the funding for a public pool as the benefits far outweigh the negatives. This may mean they have to explore other options for funding such as a community run pool.

"We call on Rutland County Council to find the funding for this essential facility."

Nub News has approached Rutland County Council for comment.

Earlier this summer, as reported by Nub News, Rutland County Council approved some short-term funding for the facility, but a report revealed it would cost more than £500,000 to make the pool operational.

In a council statement released at the time, Coun Alan Walters, Cabinet Member for Health, Leisure, Wellbeing and Adult Care, said: "Providing access to leisure services is important for health and wellbeing, which is why Cabinet has approved this short-term investment to support Catmose Sports Centre and its operators, SLL.

"The Council has been working with a specialist consultant to consider future options for leisure in Rutland, to help inform our decision-making for the future."